Interim Report details violence, abuse, neglect and exploitation

10 November 2020

People with disability are experiencing violence, abuse, neglect and exploitation across all aspects of their lives. This includes in education, health care and justice settings, and in their homes, workplaces and communities, our Interim Report says.

Released on Friday, the report says people with disability are experiencing a range of barriers to achieving inclusion within Australian society. Much more needs to be done to ensure the human rights of people with disability are respected and that Australia becomes a truly inclusive society. 

Royal Commission Chair Ronald Sackville AO QC has requested a 17 month extension to present the Royal Commission’s final report to September 29 2023.

The report details the experiences of many people with disability as well as the reasons they are exposed to violence, abuse, neglect and exploitation. 

‘The Interim Report is an important milestone in the work of the Royal Commission,’ Mr Sackville said.

‘It explains the approach the Royal Commission is undertaking. The task confronting us is formidable, but but we are committed to completing  the work in a way that will help bring about transformational change in the laws, policies, and practices affecting people with disability.’

Chapter 17 of the report discusses key areas that are particularly important to the independence of people with disability and their right to live free from violence, abuse, neglect and exploitation.

They are:

• choice and control
• attitudes towards disability
• segregation and exclusion
• restrictive practices
• access to services and supports
• advocacy and representation
• oversight and complaints
• data
• funding.

A specific chapter is dedicated to the unique experiences of First Nations people with disability.

‘The summary of the Interim Report begins with a quote: “What is happening to people (with disability) is not okay and the stories need to be told”,’ Mr Sackville said.

The Commissioners hope that this report identifies the issues that have to be addressed and contributes to ensuring the voices of people with disability are not only heard, but heeded

The Commissioners hope that this report identifies the issues that have to be addressed and contributes to ensuring the voices of people with disability are not only heard, but heeded.  

Access the full report, an Auslan summary and Easy Read version the Royal Commission into Violence, Abuse and Exploitation of People with Disability Website